Holland America Line has announced that it has removed the requirement for guests on most voyages to take a pre-cruise COVID-19 test, regardless of their vaccination status.
Effective immediately, passengers sailing on “Standard Protocol” voyages will not need to submit a negative test result to sail. The checking of guest’s vaccination status will be discontinued on “Standard Protocol” voyages as well, unless it’s required by one of the destinations on the itinerary.
“Our guests continue to show their excitement to return to cruising, and this is another step toward making it as easy as possible for them to safely explore the world in a way they love,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line.
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The cruise line’s online Health Protocols tool continues to be available, offering booked guests a simple way to learn what protocols apply to their specific voyage by looking it up using their booking number.
Standard Protocol voyages do not require proof of vaccination or pre-cruise testing. These simpler protocols now also include Panama Canal transits that are up to 15 nights long.
Guests on Enhanced Protocol voyages will be provided additional information about requirements on their sailing based on the ports visited. Travelers can continue to submit documents electronically or use the VeriFLY app ahead of embarkation for a faster check-in process.
Other cruise lines that have also recently dropped pre-cruise testing for all guests include Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages.
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